Bristol suspend Robinson, appoint Tainton

Beleaguered Bristol have suspended director of rugby Andy Robinson and appointed Mark Tainton as acting head coach.

Bristol have lost all seven Premiership matches following their promotion last season and were also beaten in both European Challenge Cup matches in October.

Former England and Scotland coach Robinson has paid the price for the club's dismal start to the season, with Bristol's all-time leading points scorer Tainton now leading the side while a review of the coaching "needs and requirements" is undertaken.

Club chairman Chris Booy said: "This is clearly a very difficult time for the club, but we remain confident we can retain our position in the Premiership.

"The support for the club this season has been outstanding and that continued backing is very important going forward."

Bristol are already seven points adrift of second-bottom at the foot of the Premiership table.